Salute to the Veterans

For more than 200 years, millions of American military troops have gallantly accepted the call to protect the United States. These brave men and women have served around the world, dedicating years of their lives, away from family and friends to defend our nation, freedom and democracy. Every year on November 11, we honor those that have given so much for us.

On this day in the 1918 at 11AM, silence fell across Europe as the world’s armies left the battlefield to return home. It was at this 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month that the armistice with Germany took effect to end the Great War. For decades, the US celebrated this day as Armistice until it was changed in 1954 to honor all veterans.

For those who served, including me, it is a day to reflect on the memories from a time many years ago and a land many miles away. I am privileged and honored to have served with the best men and women I may ever know and call them friends. I have since lost track of them, but they will always be with me.

US Marines at remote observation post in Al Anbar Province, Iraq (October 2004). HPL staff Tim is in the middle.

As a military veteran, let me say thank you and welcome home. The transition from military to civilian life is a rough road, but there are plenty of resources available to help veterans. Houston has one of the largest veteran population in the country. Many government-based services and non-profit organizations are ready to assist veterans. It can be confusing and overwhelming to find the right one that fits your need. I was discharged from military service in late 2005 and had trouble finding employment while attending college. My mother (who recently retired after 17 years with the Houston Public Library) suggested I apply for a part-time position with a library. At the time, I expected to only work here for a couple years until I received my degree. It’s been ten years since I was hired and now I’m the assistant manager of the location where I first began as a part-time team member. During this time, my personal perception of the library has done a 180 degree turn. What was once thought to be just a place for books and quiet is actually a thriving community center, reading nook, career center, where you can meet other people of similar interests. I even met my wife at the library!

This year, we honor veterans with a special program at the newly renovated Jungman Neighborhood Library: Honoring Our Heroes
November 10, 2016 | 6 PM
Local veterans are encouraged to participate and be recognized.